Solicitor warns of evidence gaps in €2.2m Ballybofey drugs case - Donegal News

Solicitor claims gaps in evidence still exist

A solicitor representing a man charged in connection with a €2.2m cannabis seizure in Ballybofey has accused prosecutors of failing to hand over key evidence, warning he cannot advise his client until the gaps are filled.

Mr Frank Dorrian, appearing at Letterkenny District Court on behalf of Christopher Doherty last Monday, said telephone records central to the conspiracy charge have not been provided to the defence, despite written requests to the State Solicitor.

“That decision could have consequences measurable in years. I am not prepared to do that until I receive full disclosure,” Mr Dorrian told the court.

Doherty (36), of Baile na Carraig, Buncrana, is charged with conspiracy in connection with the seizure of approximately 112kg of herbal cannabis following a major garda and revenue operation in the Ballybofey area last April.

Mr Dorrian stressed that his client is not accused of any physical contact with the drugs and said the missing disclosure was preventing him from properly advising Doherty on how to proceed.

“These things are specified as exhibits in the case. They should be furnished and it is an easy thing to provide,” he said.

Twin Towns brothers Patrick McGinty (39), Carrickmagrath, Ballybofey, and Michael McGinty (31), Ard McCool, Stranorlar, who face charges of importation and possession with intent to supply, have already been returned for trial to Letterkenny Circuit Court. Doherty’s case is expected to follow the same route.

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